I've volunteered on my condo's Board of Directors for almost four years now, and although it's a lot of work, it's also very rewarding to serve the residents in the building I live.

Tonight it's our annual summer barbecue, now that it actually feels like summer in Toronto at last. Being the culinary arts fan that I am (hello? Herb Communications!) I headed out to buy the food and drinks. (Might not be as decadent as the photo above, but everyone loves grilling, right?)

I'm lucky to have a good choice of supermarkets in the locale but usually go to the same couple each week. As I was in the first one buying the basics such as pop and paper plates, I also decided to get some of the food there too, such as buns, chips and cheese slices.

I already knew in my head that this would not be my supermarket of choice for the hamburgers, veggie burgers and hot dogs. They sold them, sure, and it would have been very convenient to pick them up too ... but I was looking for a certain level of brand.

So, in the car, another 20-minute drive, more fuel and I arrived at the second supermarket. Saw the (more expensive) meat/veggie items I wanted and bought them. Better quality for the residents without breaking the bank, for just a little more effort.

Digital communications is a little like a barbecue. You might need the various "ingredients" from different suppliers, but it's worth shopping around and not cheaping out. Quality always comes through and makes a longer lasting impression.

You don't want to leave a bad taste in your customers' mouths.

John.